Kansas / Douglas County

Bloomington East

Closed — Closed for the winter season. Typically reopens in spring. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.

About

Bloomington East Park encompasses several distinct camping areas on Clinton Lake, located between the Rock Creek and Wakarusa River arms of the reservoir. The park includes Cedar Ridge, Hickory/Walnut, and Oak Campgrounds for individual family camping, plus Ash and Elm Group Camps. Clinton Lake, completed in 1980, features steep bluffs, wooded shoreline and clean water across 7,000 surface acres. The lake's limited shoreline development preserves the natural Kansas backdrop while providing extensive recreational opportunities. Campers have access to Bloomington Beach's large sandy swimming area, three boat ramps within short driving distance, and excellent fishing for crappie, walleye, channel catfish and white bass. The park offers flush toilets, drinking water, showers, and a dump station. Horseshoe pits, sand volleyball courts, playgrounds, and a covered accessible fishing dock provide additional recreation options. Wildlife viewing is exceptional, with bald eagles, white-tailed deer, Canada geese, and wild turkey commonly spotted. The North Shore, South Shore, and George Latham trail systems are within 20 minutes and offer hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. The Clinton Lake Museum within Bloomington East Park features displays on regional history and the Underground Railroad. The cities of Lawrence and Topeka are within 30 minutes. Reservations are available through Recreation.gov.

Directions

From Lawrence, Kansas, take 6th Street west for 4 miles. Turn left onto County Road 442 and continue 5 miles to Stull. Turn left onto County Road 1023 and continue about 6 miles to County Road 6, turn left, and go 4 miles through the town of Clinton. Follow directional signs to the park.

Nearby Campgrounds